By Gerald Mukembu
A group of spirited youths from Meru, rallying behind Deputy Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia, have hit the streets demanding Governor Kawira Mwangaza to vacate office following an impeachment. The vibrant protest escalated outside the County headquarters, where police responded to the gathering with teargas, dispersing the crowd.
Fired up and ready to make their voices heard, the protesters questioned the legitimacy of Mwangaza’s position, urging the national government and judicial authorities to clarify the conflicting legal messages surrounding her continued tenure despite the impeachment.
“How can the Senate make one declaration only for a court to counter it?” asked Dominic Kirimi, a prominent youth leader in Meru.
He expressed frustration about Mwangaza’s continued stay in the office, questioning why she should be operating as governor when the Senate has recognized Mutuma M’Ethingia as the rightful acting governor.
“For Meru to thrive, Mwangaza must go. If development is to happen, we need a leader who actually represents us, not a ghost in the office. We are giving it ten days—if this confusion continues, we will escalate our actions.” he declared.
Adding to the chorus of discontent, Paul Kailemia slammed Mwangaza’s leadership, accusing her of failing the people of Meru.
“A protest against your leadership leaves you with no respect. She has become a village drama queen. We’re exhausted, and the community is suffering-there are no bursaries, women’s groups are struggling, and every day brings new hardships.” he said bluntly.
Echoing this sentiment, resident Linus Mithika pointed out that the Senate has already deemed Mwangaza’s authority inconsequential.
“If Mutuma M’Ethingia isn’t sworn in soon, we will take over the office ourselves. How can she continue to function in this capacity? We will not recognize Mwangaza as our governor.” he pressed.
Betty Makena further emphasized the community’s demands for justice and transparency, asserting that Mwangaza stands impeached according to the Senate gazette notice.
“We see other governors working hard to bring development projects to their counties, while we have only M’Ethingia at the helm. For two years, our community has seen no progress,” she lamented.
As tensions rise in Meru, the call for clarity and righteous governance echoes through the streets, leaving many to wonder what the next chapter will hold for the county’s leadership.
